Hagia Sophia, located in Istanbul, Turkey, stands as a significant testament to the city’s rich and diverse historical narrative. Based on feedback from my guests over the past twenty years, it is clear that this site remains one of the primary reasons many individuals travel to Istanbul. Originally constructed between 532 and 537 CE during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia functioned as a cathedral for nearly one thousand years. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1453, the structure was converted into a mosque, symbolizing the city’s evolving Islamic identity. In 1935, amidst the secular reforms instituted by President Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, Hagia Sophia was transformed into a museum.
However, in 2020, it was reconverted into a mosque and continues to operate as such to this day. From 2020 to 2024, it was used solely as a functioning mosque, leading to the closure of the upper gallery for nearly four years. In early 2024, the upper gallery of Hagia Sophia reopened for public visitation and operates as a museum. Therefore, if you wish to visit Hagia Sophia as a non-Muslim traveler, you must pay an entrance fee. For Muslim travelers, the lower section of Hagia Sophia is open only for prayer during designated hours. If you go to pray, you will not be able to visit the upper gallery.
Hagia Sophia Entrance Fee 2025
As of 2025, Hagia Sophia remains a functioning mosque and museum and is open to visitors. There is no entrance fee for tourists. Visiting hours are from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM daily. On Fridays, the mosque is closed to visitors from 12:00 PM to 02:30 PM to accommodate congregational prayers. Hagia Sophia entrance fee is 25 Euros as of 2025. Museum Pass Istanbul is not valid at Hagia Sophia. ( Information about ticket prices was last updated on February 3rd, 2025 ).
(This photo captures me and my guests before 2020, prior to the Hagia Sophia’s conversion into a mosque ).
(Since 2020, the lower section of the Hagia Sophia has been operating as a functioning mosque, granting free admission to Muslim individuals during prayer hours.)
There are several methods for procuring tickets.
Option 1: As the Hagia Sophia is operated by a corporate entity, visitors may purchase entrance tickets directly at the kiosks located at the entrance. Please be advised that long queues may occur, particularly during high season (from late March until November) and on days when cruise ships arrive.
Option 2: Tickets may also be obtained through the corporate’s official website, provided in the link below. However, it is important to note that only the entrance fee to the Hagia Sophia cannot be purchased individually; instead, a combination ticket that includes entry to the Hagia Sophia Experience Museum and the Hagia Sophia itself is sold at a rate of 50 euros. DEM MUSEUMS
(The information regarding ticket prices was last updated on February 3rd, 2025.)
Option 3: Due to the advantages offered by official travel agencies, they have the capacity to purchase tickets in advance for their clients. Should you book the guided Istanbul tour, which includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia, and communicate with your agent, they offer tickets ranging from 25 euros to 30 euros. If you opt to book any Istanbul tour with me, you will be able to purchase the entrance ticket for the Hagia Sophia at a price of 25 euros per person, which is equivalent to the standard rate at the kiosk; however, I kindly request that payment be made in cash. Below is a sample Istanbul tour that includes a visit to the Hagia Sophia.
While visiting the Hagia Sophia, kindly adhere to the following guidelines:
**Dress Code**: Attire of a modest nature is mandated. Both men and women are required to don clothing that adequately covers the shoulders and knees. Additionally, women are expected to cover their heads; scarves are generally provided at the entrance if needed.
**Footwear**: In the designated area for prayer within the Mosque, it is mandatory to remove shoes before entering the main prayer hall. It is advisable to wear footwear that can be easily removed. In the museum section, specifically the upper gallery, there is no requirement to remove shoes.
**Behavior**: It is imperative to maintain a demeanor that is respectful. Noise levels should be kept to a minimum, and the use of flash photography should be avoided. During designated prayer times, certain areas may be limited to worshippers exclusively.
Be aware that guidelines and visiting hours may vary. It’s advisable to verify the most current information prior to your visit.
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